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Male chauvinism in Mexico is so deeply rooted that not one the head of state is protected,” declared Caterina Camastra, voicing a sentiment echoed by numerous women throughout the nation. This comes after a viral video showed a drunk man molesting Claudia Sheinbaum as she strolled from the National Palace to the department of education. Sheinbaum, who has filed a complaint against the perpetrator, remarked at a press briefing: “When this happens to the leader, what occurs to all the other women in the nation?”

Unprecedented Situation Highlights on Widespread Sexual Harassment

Sheinbaum’s historic role has turned this into a learning opportunity in a society where sexual harassment and physical violation on public spaces and public transport are often normalized and not taken seriously. At the same time, rival factions have claimed the assault was staged to divert attention from the recent murder of a local mayor, a critic of organized crime. Yet, most women understand that sexual violence need not be staged—studies indicate that half of Mexican women have experienced it at one time or another in their lifetimes.

Navigating Public Engagement and Safety

The president, similar to her predecessor, is known for mixing with the public, shaking hands, and posing for selfies. She was such an interaction that she was groped. “This is a delicate balance between ensuring security and being close to the public,” noted a sociologist specializing in cultural studies. For a female president, it’s a sobering realization that you often can’t win.

Those raised in a very traditional manner where patriarchal structure are normalized, a female leader like Sheinbaum, who is a scientist and a leftist, represents all that traditional males in Mexico despise,” the sociologist elaborated.

Shared Experiences of Assault and Fighting Back

Sexual assault is not limited to Mexico, of course. Discussing the president’s experience opened a flood of memories and shared stories among female individuals. When the expert mentioned urging her students to react when assaulted, she heard about personal incidents, such as one where a individual was violated twice during a religious pilgrimage. In a similar vein, stories of fighting back—like beating up a groper in a club—highlight a growing worldwide movement of women rejecting to stay silent.

Breaking Silence and Channeling Anger

Maybe this incident will mark a turning point for Mexican women. “We have been breaking the silence, but it’s incredibly difficult,” Cardona stated. “Many women are embarrassed, but now we are able to talk about it with greater openness.” She routinely discusses with her students the measures she takes when going out, such as considering clothing to avoid unwanted advances. And she poses a question to her male pupils: “Have you ever thought about that?” The answer is invariably no.

Today, after the leader’s assault captured on film and viewed globally, will men in Mexico start to reconsider? The sociologist encourages everyone: “It’s essential to harness the anger!”

One thing is evident: The individuals who fight back make their assailants remember.